JD Carroll has been writing music since before paper was invented. Originally, he carved his lyrics into wood tree limbs and etched them onto slabs of soft stone. This was an extremely time consuming way to record his music.

As JD moved to outside Philadelphia, PA and worked on refining his sound and learning to record his music, he produced the vinyl 45 "I Can Make You Smile" b/w "Brand New Lover." Both received lots of play on juke boxes all over the city.

JD has been re-recording his music and has made it available to all on this site and at www.creativeventuresmusic.com as well as on I-Tunes, TuneCore, Radio Airplay and CD-Baby. Check it out, enjoy.

What Musical Genre Do You Feel Best Describes Your Music And How Would You Describe Your Sound?

I write and play in a folk-rock style. My influences run all across the spectrum; folk, country, rock, blues, pop, and the singer/songwriter. I try for an emotional link with the listener. Some have said my music is generally relaxing and insightful, but some of my tunes have a tough edge and a straight forward rock and roll beat.

How Did You Get Your Name? Is There A Story?

Pretty normal. My whole name is James Douglas Carroll. All my life I have gone by Douglas, I guess my parents wanted to call me Douglas, but as a Roman Catholic they needed a saint's name first and my grandfather's name was James Joseph. When I started writing I started using JD as my pen name if you will.

What Are or Have Been Your Musical Influences?

I am an older guy and most of my influences come from back in the last century. I was very influenced by Simon & Garfunkel, the Beatles, Dylan, and all those early folksingers. I really like tight harmonies and I try to make my lyrics meaningful.

What Are You Working On Now? Any Future Collaborations We Can Look Forward To?

My most current project is a self produced EP with a friend of mine of mostly classic folk tunes. I do not usually collaborate when I write but I do reach out to studio musicians when I am putting a new tune together. I have a loose group musicians that I can bring in for one or two songs. I know that sounds a little strange but it works for me and we always have a lot of fun getting together. Playing with musicians better than I am always makes me sound a little better.

What Is Your Ultimate Goal In The Music Industry? What Is Your Plan Of Action?

My goals have changed over the years. One goal that I have always had though, is to get my songs out to the public and get covered by artists who can put their own brand on one of my tunes. Of course, now I would like to make a little money from my tunes.

What Is Your Favorite Track To Perform Live and Why?

Right now, I enjoy playing "I Guess I'll Never Know" It's a sort of sad tune written for a young friend who left us way too soon. My favorites change as my mood changes, just like anyone else. I enjoy playing all my tunes. I try to touch a certain feeling with each of my songs so when I play them I try to get into that mood.

What Has Been The Biggest Challenge In Your Career Thus far?

I think the biggest challenge I have faced is getting listened to and getting taken seriously as a writer.

What’s Your Typical Songwriting Process?

I start with an idea or maybe a first line. I try to think of a story or relevant issue and try to either tell the whole story or make a comment on a point. I try to make melodies follow the natural melody of the language. Sometimes a song will roll out and I can't write it down fast enough and other times I will spend weeks sculpting a tune working on each beat, syllable and note. I seem to go through very fruitful periods and other times I really have to work to produce anything. Still, I try to write everyday.

How Has Social Media Influenced Your Career As An Artist?

I have been able to reach many, many more people with my music with the advent of social media.. The internet has opened up a huge audience to me and I don't think anyone can deny that the reach has helped everyone. I have fans all across the globe that was unheard of just ten years ago. I remember back in college my roommate and I would laugh about how great it would be if these "new" computers would be great if they could make music and now they are indispensable. Times have changed for the better, even though I still like to fire up my Revox B-77 tape recorder and lay down a couple tracks, old school, I mean really old school, but it is still fun.

What Are Some Tracks and Artists Currently On Your Playlist?

I have been listening to a lot of Lake Street Dive lately. I like almost any music Bruno Mars, Ed Sheeran, Adele and I have always liked Taylor Swift just because she seems like such a hard worker.

What Did You Do Before You Started Making Music?

I started writing when I was a senior in High School so before that I was just being a kid. Now, I am currently working my day job as a video engineer, yes that is right I still have a day job but that is the way it goes.

Any Advice For Young People (Men or Women) That Want To Succeed In The Music World?

Besides practicing I think having confidence in yourself is essential. You also need to be in good physical shape if you are thinking about spending any time on the road.I have learned it is also very important to keep track of all the folks you meet along the way. Networking is the favorite buzz word but it really is true, its not as much what you know as who you know.

What Would You Change In The Music Industry If You Were A Top Music Executive?

If I were a Top Music Executive I wouldn't change anything but, if I had that power I would probably try to open up the markets even wider than they have been opened. There is so much good music out there that no one hears. I would like to see even more open airways.

How Do You Feel About Originality?

I am all about originality. Everyone has their own story to tell and everyone can tell it in their own unique way. With the power of digital music we can all make our own music in own way.

Is There Anything Else We Should Know About You Or That You Would Like to Add?

I have been writing for a long time and I enjoy coming up with new tunes all the time. I enjoy sharing my music with everyone and I get a big kick out of hearing other people play my tunes.